E-book

The boardroom-ready CISO: Translating risk, building trust and securing buy-in

Your board doesn't speak cyber. It’s time you spoke business.

December 09, 2025

Key takeaways

growth

The CISO role has evolved to become a leader in enterprise risk management and business strategy.

money

CISOs must articulate threats and opportunities in a language that aligns with board priorities.

 Line Illustration of people talking

By leading the conversation, CISOs can build a shared understanding of resilience and growth.

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Risk consulting Cybersecurity consulting Cybersecurity

The stakes for effective cybersecurity governance have never been higher. As a chief information security officer (CISO), the ground is shifting beneath your feet as emerging technologies like artificial intelligence introduce entirely new categories of risk that can fundamentally alter your company’s strategy and operations.

Simultaneously, regulatory pressures continue to grow, leading to increasing demands on your organization as well as potential consequences. Guidance from organizations, including the National Association of Corporate Directors, the National Institute of Standards and Technology, and the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission, underscores the board of directors’ accountability in overseeing cybersecurity risks. High-profile cybersecurity incidents serve as stark reminders of the potential for significant damage to corporate reputation, financial performance and the legacies of those at the pinnacle of workforce leadership.

The modern CISO’s role is rapidly evolving. You are no longer the guardian of systems and data, but a pivotal leader in enterprise risk management and business strategy. This playbook is engineered for that evolution.

Our guide highlights the essential frameworks to elevate your engagement and conversations with the board, moving beyond technical jargon and into the realm of business enablement, risk appetite and competitive advantage. In addition, the guide provides critical insights into:

  • Creating a governance blueprint
  • Architecting your engagement plan
  • Arming your board for crisis and aligning security with culture
  • Solidifying your strategic value

It’s time to transform your board from spectators into your strongest cybersecurity allies and solidify your position as a key strategic voice at the table.

RSM contributors

  • Robert Snodgrass
    Principal, Risk Consulting
  • Rod Hackman
    Rod Hackman
    Advisor, Board Excellence

Download the e-book